Nasa tests 3D-printed rocket engine fuel injector

Discussion in 'Science and Technology' started by Wolfman's Brother, Jul 15, 2013.

  1. Wolfman's Brother

    Wolfman's Brother Member

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    -Nasa has announced it has successfully tested a 3D-printed rocket engine part.

    -The US space agency said that the injector component could be made more quickly and cheaply using the technique.

    -The technique involves turning a computer-designed object into a real-world part by controlling a high-powered laser beam which melts and fuses thin layers of metallic powders into the preordained shape.

    -Nasa said the component would normally have taken a year to make because of the exact measurements involved, but by using SLM the manufacturing time was cut to less than four months and the price reduced by more than 70%.

    -Nasa recognises that on Earth and potentially in space, additive manufacturing can be game-changing for new mission opportunities, significantly reducing production time and cost by 'printing' tools, engine parts or even entire spacecraft

    Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-23313921
     

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